Microsoft issues fix for Windows 11 update that bricked mouse and keyboard controls in recovery environment

Microsoft has issued a fix for a recent Windows 11 update after the patch caused USB devices such as mice and keyboards to fail.

After rolling out this month's security update (KB5066835), Windows 11 users reported keyboards, mice and other USB connected devices wouldn't work when in Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

That meant such input devices worked properly during normal operation, but would fail if a user entered recovery mode to reset or repair their laptop – leaving them unable to navigate the settings,

"After installing October 2025 security update (KB5066835), USB devices, such as keyboards and mice, do not function in the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)," Microsoft noted in a statement.

"This issue prevents navigation of any of the recovery options within WinR